Former Lakers guard Steve Nash compares his back issues to LeBron James’ sciatica as L.A. prepares for life without James to start the year.

An updated timeline has been announced for LeBron James as he works his way back from sciatica on his left side.

Doncic’s presence should help ease the sting of LeBron’s absence. However, the Western Conference will greatly benefit from LA’s notable setback.Last season, the Lakers finished with an impressive 50-32 record in the West.

James and Wade have been close to one another for over 20 years as they were the No. 1 and No. 5 picks respectively in the 2003 draft. They won two NBA titles together with the Heat in the 2012-13 seasons, and played a total of five seasons together in the NBA.

ESPN’s Brian Windhorst hints a LeBron James trade could become realistic if the Los Angeles Lakers struggle early in the 2025-26 season.